India vs South Africa 2023: South Africa’s strongest predicted playing XI against India

South Africa are all set to host India in the third and final game of the ODI series, at Boland Park on December 21, Thursday. The hosts won the second ODI by eight wickets and levelled the series 1-1.

Speaking about the second ODI, South Africa won the toss and opted to field first. The Proteas restricted India to a below-par 211 in 46.2 overs with Nandre Burger claiming a three-wicket haul. Later on, opener Tony de Zorzi scored an unbeaten century as South Africa chased down the target in 42.3 overs.

Here's South Africa's Predicted XI against India:

Openers: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi

In the final ODI, South Africa will probably still start their innings with Tony de Zorzi and Reeza Hendricks. Hendricks did not fare well in the first ODI, but he was magnificent in the second one, which the Proteas won by eight wickets. In the second game, the 34-year-old batter amassed a half-century and formed a 130-run partnership with De Zorzi for the opening wicket. He is expected to establish vital partnerships at the top and provide stability in South Africa's batting lineup.

Tony de Zorzi is one of South Africa's rising talents. Since making his debut in March 2023, the 20-year-old has scored 192 runs thus far in four games. He scored his first ODI ton during the second game against India, smashing 119* off just 122 deliveries.

Middle Order: Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller

Rassie van der Dussen is slated to occupy the crucial number three position in South Africa's batting lineup. His outstanding performance with the bat during the recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, sets out him as a formidable presence. His capacity to steady the innings and unleash attacking shots will be crucial for the team.

Aiden Markram, South Africa captain, administers both leadership and aggressive batting prowess in the middle order. An accomplished and composed batter, Markram's aggression and strength on the offside make him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket. Heinrich Klaasen adds further strength to South Africa's middle order.

Known for his aggressive six-hitting and adept finishing skills, Klaasen seamlessly adapts to match situations, providing a valuable boost to the squad. Now, speaking of the middle order, David Miller, renowned for his explosive batting skills, brings a wealth of experience to the team. If he gets a chance to bat, Miller is expected to play a crucial role for the side with his proven ability.

All-rounder: Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj

Wiaan Mulder, who was included in the XI of the second game is yet to showcase significant performances. The all-rounder has bowled in an impressive economic spell of 4.75. Keshav Maharaj has been entrusted with the all-rounder responsibilities in the South African squad.

Maharaj has showcased exceptional performances so far in the ODI series, picking a total of two wickets. He also played a crucial role in the T20I series against India as well as in the recently concluded ODI World Cup.

Bowlers: Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams, Beuran Hendricks

Fast bowler Nandre Burger has the ability to amaze batters with his extraordinary pace and bounce. Impressively, he demonstrated his skills in the second ODI game, finishing with excellent figures of 3/30 in his 10-over full quota. Lizaad Williams also provides support in South Africa's fast-bowling lineup. He has the ability to trouble the opposition which makes him a valuable asset in the team.

Beuran Hendricks also has a reasonable ability to bowl at pace. In the second ODI, he finished with excellent figures of 2/34. The pacer is expected to play a vital role in the forthcoming game as well.

South Africa's Predicted XI for 3rd ODI:

Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams, Beuran Hendricks